Miguel Ángel Revilla, the former President of Cantabria, has launched his new book titled Por qué pasa lo que pasa, where he dives deeply not only within its pages of nearly 300, but also across various platforms, discussing the turbulent currents of Spanish politics today. He engages with pressing topics ranging from the conflict in Ukraine to the machinations of political power swirling around Madrid.
During his promotional tour, Revilla articulates the widespread confusion among the populace: "En la cena de Nochebuena, en la de Nochevieja, en el bar... La gente se pregunta eso, qué pasa y por qué, no entienden muchas cosas." This resonates with many Spaniards who find themselves bewildered by the political climate, leading to questions about the direction their country is taking.
Revilla critiques the contemporary political elite, expressing his dismay at what he perceives as a lack of preparedness and coherence among politicians. He remarks, "España ahora es un país de políticos poco preparados, cainitas y sin sentido colectivo," indicating his longing for the caliber of those who navigated the country during the Transition period. He laments the ease with which modern politicians form alliances, claiming, "Ahora solo se ponen de acuerdo para subirse el suelo," reflecting the prevailing self-interest he sees as hindering meaningful governance.
One of the more controversial figures he addresses is Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Revilla claims, "Veo difícil que Pedro Sánchez apruebe unos presupuestos. Sin ellos, convocará elecciones," implying severe difficulties for the current administration. This marks a notable shift from Revilla's previous close relationship with Sánchez, which has soured due to perceived inconsistencies and alignments with separatist factions.
Revilla's book also offers poignant reflections on the former king of Spain, Juan Carlos I. He does not hold back his critiques here either, stating, "Soy una persona que contra los corruptos, no puedo," emphasizing his disdain for corruption and betrayal among leadership figures. His frustration crescendos as he articulates how Juan Carlos’s alleged tax evasion and subsequent declaration of apathy toward Spanish citizenship have tarnished the monarchy's standing: "Es muy fuerte que un jefe del Estado se haya declarado apátrida. Para mí, no es un ciudadano español el que reniega pagar los impuestos en su país." This sharp condemnation encapsulates the disappointment many feel toward leaders who fail to embody the values they preach.
Revilla’s apparent zest for writing—he has penned eight books—couples with his fervent advocacy for political accountability. His dissertations are not merely reflections of his thoughts; they are calls to action for citizens to demand higher standards from their leaders. “Cada dos años, uno nuevo. No más elecciones pero sí más libros,” he notes, signifying his commitment to continue using written words to address pressing issues.
Further highlighting his critique of current leadership dynamics, Revilla also mentions his views on the current king, Felipe VI, distinctly separating him from his father’s legacy. He praises Felipe VI, noting the positive influence of Queen Letizia, stating, “Este rey es un gran rey.” This statement signifies his belief in the current monarchy being more attuned to the real needs and sentiments of the citizens compared to the previous reign.
Revilla's broad-ranging commentary provides insight not just at surface level but deeply critiques the structures and individuals who play pivotal roles in shaping Spanish society. From evaluating his contemporaries to reflecting on historical legacies, he uses his book to disentangle the complex narratives embedded within Spain's political framework.
The political climate, as described by Revilla, appears fraught—marked by infighting among politicians and growing disdain among citizens. His critique of Juan Carlos I acts as emblematic of broader issues of accountability and integrity, beckoning for change among those wielding power.
With each political bastion he addresses, Revilla instills the urgency for more informed, principled leadership to guide Spain’s future. His book serves as both a piece of literature and as a documented outcry from someone embedded within the political fray, paralleling historical insights with contemporary realities.
Revilla poignantly captures the essence of frustrations echoed across Spain, making Por qué pasa lo que pasa not just relevant reading, but necessary discourse for all who wish to navigate the tumultuous waters of current events reshaping the nation.
